WOULD-BE Steven Spielbergs and Quentin Tarantinos are being offered a chance to be the film-makers of the future.

With more Hollywood stars such as Demi Moore, Angelina Jolie and Clive Owen heading to Wales to make big-screen smashes, Sgrin Cymru is giving ambitious directors based in Wales the chance to make their mark on the film world.

Budding directors are being given the opportunity to have their short films produced by entering two competitions this summer.

Sgrin Cymru has extended its Screen Gems scheme to offer the opportunity to make five and 10-minute films, instead of the past format of just three minutes.

The winners of the competition - now in its sixth year - will see their films go into production with budgets of up to #25,000 (for four five-minute films) or #40,000 (for two 10-minute films).

The scheme is also an opportunity for the development of production and trainee skills, with all films being made by Welsh-based production companies. Trainees will also be chosen for production, production design and camera roles.

The organisation is holding a separate competition offering debut directors a chance to get their work noticed.

Berwyn Rowlands, chief executive of Sgrin Cymru, said: "The scheme has always predominantly been about developing talent in Wales, and we are eager to ensure the best possible ideas for short films go into production this summer.

"We have noted over the years the three-minute format may be restrictive to some filmmakers.

"We have decided to change the scheme to accommodate the requirements of cinemas and festivals worldwide, while also offering a different and exciting challenge to the filmmakers here in Wales."

Screen Gems is coordinated by Sgrin Cymru Wales and funded by the Arts Council of Wales and the WDA/Welsh Assembly Government through Sgrin.

Peter Tyndall, chief executive of the Arts Council of Wales, said: "Screen Gems is a wonderful opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to develop their skills and show what they can achieve."

Digital Visions is co-ordinated and funded in collaboration with BBC Wales and the UK Film Council, is aimed at recent graduates first-time filmmakers.

Ideas for the five-minute films must be submitted by June 28 and 10-minute films by July 27.

Application forms are available online at www.sgrin.co.uk, or by contacting Rhodri ap Dyfrig on 02920 333314 or at rhodri@sgrin.co.uk.

Entry details for Digital Visions will be announced later in the summer.